NJDOT starts improvement of Route 206 in Byram Township

BYRAM — The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) announced last week the start of construction on an $18.3 million safety and operational improvement project on Route 206 in Byram Township. “Improving this stretch of Route 206 will make traveling downtown in Byram Township safer and easier,” said Transportation Commissioner Stephen Dilts. “Safety is paramount to residents who travel this highway on a daily basis, and we are pleased to have been able to work closely with the local officials to bring this important project to construction.” Initial construction began Monday night. Operations include utility relocation, milling and paving as well as roadway widening and realignment work. NJDOT will shift Route 206 traffic to the east, utilizing the existing northbound shoulder as a travel lane. One lane of Route 206 will be maintained in each direction during normal work hours with left-turn lanes at the Waterloo/Brookwood Road intersection. The work zone will be established in the right (west) side of Route 206 southbound, as well as on the right side of Waterloo Road eastbound. Nighttime temporary lane closures will be allowed on Route 206, as needed. Lackawanna Drive will be realigned with the Lockwood Tavern driveway. The speed limit along this stretch of Route 206 will be reduced to 35 mph. Drainage and landscaping/aesthetic improvements will also be made. The state-funded project is anticipated for completion by the end of 2011.